AUSTIN — Republican Gov. Greg Abbott began dismantling a flagship initiative of his predecessor Thursday, saying he will abolish Rick Perry's pet program that gave $200 million in taxpayer dollars to Texas startups and was beset by bankruptcies and questionable claims of success.

AUSTIN - George W. Bush called it Sam Houston's bible. Rick Perry swore on its centuries-old sheepskin four times. And on Tuesday, Texas Gov.-elect Greg Abbott is set to preserve one of the oldest inaugural traditions in the U.S.

AUSTIN - Fallout over $110 million in no-bid state contracts widened Wednesday when Republican Gov.-elect Greg Abbott ordered a review into Texas' sprawling health agency that is already under criminal investigation.

AUSTIN — Plunging oil prices are expected to dampen how much money lawmakers will have to spend when the Texas Legislature returns to work this week.
Republican Comptroller Glenn Hegar will announce the new state revenue estimate Monday. The number is a crucial starting point that tells budget writers how much money is available.